Philosophy and Therapeutic Approach

Counseling is such a beautiful way to show up for yourself. Our lives have many mountains and valleys that we walk through each day, and we deserve to walk through them with someone who can offer support. My privilege and honor as your counselor is to provide a safe and welcoming place for you to come as you are and begin your therapeutic journey. A place for the weary-hearted and heavy-laden (Matthew 11:28) to receive encouragement, knowledge, and practical tools. 

This is also true for our adolescents and children. Through their imagination and childlike wonder, their eyes can be opened to unlock their full potential. It is my role to create a safe atmosphere where children and adolescents feel comfortable and excited to step into session. I listen to their perspective and, for children, use tools such as toys and play to help them find support while they express fear, grief, anger, and the many emotions we all feel regularly. 

Jesus wept (John 11:35). Emotions are a gift that I will aid you in expressing. Whether grief, anger, or happiness, what you feel is valid and deserves space to be let out, not pushed away. With how quickly our daily lives become busy, it is important to slow down and let go of our worries (Matthew 6:34). 

what to Expect in Therapy

Walking through the doors to your first session can hold so many feelings. It is vulnerable to share your story. Rest assured that I will make our time together safe, welcoming, and authentic. You do not have to put on a mask or disguise your true self. As you share about your life and what brings you in for counseling, we will work together to create an intentional plan forward at a pace you are comfortable with.

In our initial sessions, we will dive into any of your questions about therapy for yourself or your child. We will get to know each other, ensure we are a good fit, and work on establishing goals. Our therapeutic relationship will be built on a foundation of trust and safety as we work toward abundant life for you (Psalm 27:14). 

I hope you discover therapy to be like a hidden superpower. As you spend time learning about yourself, acknowledging your feelings, and growing your superhero tool belt, my desire is that you will have a new way to battle anxiety, fear, and the many trials of life. 

I understand that we are all on a unique journey when it comes to faith and spiritual practices. If you would like to incorporate prayer, scripture, and spiritual practices into your sessions, I would be honored to do so. I can also integrate art, music, and other forms of expression into our sessions. I believe God has gifted us with many ways to fill our spirits. 

Personal Qualifications and Experience

The way many people love to learn about the exploration of space and the ocean is how I love to learn about our body and the brain! I received my undergraduate degree in psychology and counseling and especially loved learning about child development and how our unique identities form.

In my adolescent years, I loved caring for my friends as they navigated relational problems, difficulties at home, or trying to find their purpose. I delighted in being a helpful friend. I have also enjoyed my time engaging with customers as a barista and getting to make their day brighter with a simple cup of coffee. 

I have experience working with children with autism. That opportunity is where I found my love for kids and developed a passion for showing up with goals and targets for them to work on. Helping children is a blessing and honor. 

Personal Interests

Throughout my years of studying, I greatly enjoyed reading Piaget’s theories and different therapy concepts. When I’m not studying, I love to have board game nights with my friends and go on sunset walks with my Pup Lucy whose nickname is Goober because she is so silly!